Three Ways to Prevent Common Running Injuries

Running InjuriesImage: active.com

Benjamin Barrone is an Accounting Manager with Vital Proteins, am ingestible collagen company located in Chicago, Illinois. An avid golfer and runner, Benjamin Barrone has completed two half-marathons with his wife and youngest sister.

When it comes to running, repetition of the same motions for long periods of time exposes runners to a unique set of overuse injuries. Here are three ways to prevent some of the most common running injuries.

1. Take time to stretch. As with any physical activity, flexibility helps reduce abnormal strain on the joints, tendons, and ligaments. Always warm up before you stretch, and be sure to devote at least 30 seconds to each stretch. High knee skips and pigeon pose are especially useful in preventing quad/hamstring and IT band injuries.

2. Incorporate strength training. Strengthening your muscles enables you to reduce strain on tendons and ligaments when you become fatigued. Common strength training exercises for runners include hill running, plyometrics, and lifting weights.

3. Wear proper shoes. Running shoes are the body’s point of contact with the ground, meaning that all force is transferred at the sole of the shoe. Even the slightest misalignment can cause long-term issues with the ankles, knees, or hips. Consider visiting a store that specializes in running apparel, where experts can help you find the shoe that best fits your foot.